Taoiseach Micheal Martin has confirmed that Ireland is set lift visa requirements for Ukrainian nationals who want to travel to Ireland after Russia invaded in the early hours of this morning.
Ukrainian nationals usually require a visa to enter Ireland.
However, the Taoiseach confirmed those requirements will change in response to the situation in eastern Europe.
He said: "The Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of Justice will meet in the next hour to operationalise the waiving of visa requirements for all Ukrainian citizens coming into Ireland.
"We believe this will be particularly helpful to Ukrainian families here who may want their loved ones to join them.
Speaking at Government buildings today, the Taoiseach said: "Our thoughts must be with the innocent people of Ukraine in this, their most difficult hour. We stand with them."
"It cannot and will not go unanswered. President Putin and those who support him will be held accountable."
The Department of Foreign Affairs has updated travel advice for Irish people currently in Ukraine.
The current security status is "do not travel."
It is closely monitoring "the situation in Ukraine together with our EU and other international partners."
"We are advising all Irish citizens currently in Ukraine to shelter in a secure place, given the security situation there. However, citizens should consider leaving Ukraine if they judge it safe to do so, depending on their location and prevailing circumstances."
Protests have been carried out across Dublin including outside the Russian embassy.
There were as many as 20 protesters flying Ukraine flags at the Embassy on Orwell Road in Milltown when the red paint was thrown over the Russian emblem, a source told Dublin Live.
